Multiple Image Security Features for Identification Documents and Methods of Making Same

ABSTRACT

An identification document manufacturing method makes an identification document with an optically variable security feature by forming a lens structure in the document&#39;s lamination layer along with image information. The method provides image information arranged to include at least two different images. The method uses pressure to form a lens profile in a laminate, including combining the laminate with ink representing the image information to form the document. The document is formed together with the laminate and ink such that the lens profile enables display of the at least two different images when the document is viewed at different predetermined angles. An information bearing document comprises a core layer, an image layer depicting at least two different images, and a laminate layer. The laminate layer is pressed on the core layer such that it forms a lens profile that enables display of the at least two different images when the document is viewed at different predetermined angles.

RELATED APPLICATION DATA

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.10/325,434, filed Dec. 18, 2002, which claims priority to ApplicationNos. 60/344,718, filed Dec. 24, 2001, 60/344,683, filed Dec. 24, 2001,and 60/341,569, filed Dec. 18, 2001, which are incorporated herein byreference in their entirety.

The present application is related to U.S. patent application Ser. No.09/747,735, filed Dec. 22, 2000, Ser. No. 09/602,313, filed Jun. 23,2000, and Ser. No. 10/094,593, filed Mar. 6, 2002, U.S. ProvisionalPatent Application No. 60/358,321, filed Feb. 19, 2002, as well as U.S.Pat. No. 6,066,594. Each of the above U.S. Patent documents is hereinincorporated by reference.

FIELD

The invention relates in general to an information-bearing laminarassembly suitable for use as an identification card, and moreparticularly, to an information-bearing laminar assembly having thereona plurality of lenticular lens elements that provide a multiple imagesecurity feature.

BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY

Identification documents (hereafter “ID documents”) play a critical rolein today's society. One example of an ID document is an identificationcard (“ID card”). ID documents are used on a daily basis—to proveidentity, to verify age, to access a secure area, to evidence drivingprivileges, to cash a check, and so on. Airplane passengers are requiredto show an ID document during check in, security screening, and prior toboarding their flight. In addition, because we live in an ever-evolvingcashless society, ID documents are used to make payments, access an ATM,debit an account, or make a payment, etc.

Many types of identification cards and documents, such as drivinglicenses, national or government identification cards, bank cards,credit cards, controlled access cards and smart cards, carry thereoncertain items of information which relate to the identity of the bearer.Examples of such information include name, address, birth date,signature and photographic image; the cards or documents may in additioncarry other variant data (i.e., data specific to a particular card ordocument, for example an employee number) and invariant data (i.e., datacommon to a large number of cards, for example the name of an employer).All of the cards described above will hereinafter be genericallyreferred to as “ID documents”.

In the production of images useful in the field of identificationdocumentation, it is oftentimes desirable to embody into a document(such as an ID card, drivers license, passport or the like) data orindicia representative of the document issuer (e.g., an official seal,or the name or mark of a company or educational institution) and data orindicia representative of the document bearer (e.g., a photographiclikeness, name or address). Typically, a pattern, logo or otherdistinctive marking representative of the document issuer will serve asa means of verifying the authenticity, genuineness or valid issuance ofthe document. A photographic likeness or other data or indicia personalto the bearer will validate the right of access to certain facilities orthe prior authorization to engage in commercial transactions andactivities.

Identification documents, such as ID cards, having printed backgroundsecurity patterns, designs or logos and identification data personal tothe card bearer have been known and are described, for example, in U.S.Pat. No. 3,758,970, issued Sep. 18, 1973 to M. Annenberg; in GreatBritain Pat. No. 1,472,581, issued to G. A. O. Gesellschaft FurAutomation Und Organisation mbH, published Mar. 10, 1976; inInternational Patent Application PCT/GB82/00150, published Nov. 25, 1982as Publication No. WO 82/04149; in U.S. Pat. No. 4,653,775, issued Mar.31, 1987 to T. Raphael, et al.; in U.S. Pat. No. 4,738,949, issued Apr.19, 1988 to G. S. Sethi, et al.; and in U.S. Pat. No. 5,261,987, issuedNov. 16, 1993 to J. W. Luening, et al. All of the aforementioneddocuments are hereby incorporated by reference.

The advent of commercial apparatus (printers) for producing dye imagesby thermal transfer has made relatively commonplace the production ofcolor prints from electronic data acquired by a video camera. Ingeneral, this is accomplished by the acquisition of digital imageinformation (electronic signals) representative of the red, green andblue content of an original, using color filters or other known means.These signals are then utilized to print an image onto a data carrier.For example, information can be printed using a printer having aplurality of small heating elements (e.g., pins) for imagewise heatingof each of a series of donor sheets (respectively, carrying sublimablecyan, magenta and yellow dye). The donor sheets are brought into contactwith an image-receiving element (which can, for example, be a substrate)which has a layer for receiving the dyes transferred imagewise from thedonor sheets. Thermal dye transfer methods as aforesaid are known anddescribed, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 4,621,271, issued Nov. 4, 1986to S. Brownstein and U.S. Pat. No. 5,024,989, issued Jun. 18, 1991 to Y.H. Chiang, et al. Each of these patents is hereby incorporated byreference.

Commercial systems for issuing ID documents are of two main types,namely so-called “central” issue (CI), and so-called “on-the-spot” or“over-the-counter” (OTC) issue.

CI type ID documents are not immediately provided to the bearer, but arelater issued to the bearer from a central location. For example, in onetype of CI environment, a bearer reports to a document station wheredata is collected, the data are forwarded to a central location wherethe card is produced, and the card is forwarded to the bearer, often bymail. Another illustrative example of a CI assembling process occurs ina setting where a driver passes a driving test, but then receives herlicense in the mail from a CI facility a short time later. Still anotherillustrative example of a CI assembling process occurs in a settingwhere a driver renews her license by mail or over the Internet, thenreceives a drivers license card through the mail.

Centrally issued identification documents can be produced from digitallystored information and generally comprise an opaque core material (alsoreferred to as “substrate”), such as paper or plastic, sandwichedbetween two layers of clear plastic laminate, such as polyester, toprotect the aforementioned items of information from wear, exposure tothe elements and tampering. The materials used in such CI identificationdocuments can offer the ultimate in durability. In addition, centrallyissued digital identification documents generally offer a higher levelof security than OTC identification documents because they offer theability to pre-print the core of the central issue document withsecurity features such as “micro-printing”, ultra-violet securityfeatures, security indicia and other features currently unique tocentrally issued identification documents. Another security advantagewith centrally issued documents is that the security features and/orsecured materials used to make those features are centrally located,reducing the chances of loss or theft (as compared to having securedmaterials dispersed over a wide number of “on the spot” locations).

In addition, a CI assembling process can be more of a bulk processfacility, in which many cards are produced in a centralized facility,one after another. The CI facility may, for example, process thousandsof cards in a continuous manner. Because the processing occurs in bulk,CI can have an increase in efficiency as compared to some OTC processes,especially those OTC processes that run intermittently. Thus, CIprocesses can sometimes have a lower cost per ID document, if a largevolume of ID documents are manufactured.

In contrast to CI identification documents, OTC identification documentsare issued immediately to a bearer who is present at a document-issuingstation. An OTC assembling process provides an ID document“on-the-spot”. (An illustrative example of an OTC assembling process isa Department of Motor Vehicles (“DMV”) setting where a driver's licenseis issued to person, on the spot, after a successful exam.). In someinstances, the very nature of the OTC assembling process results insmall, sometimes compact, printing and card assemblers for printing theID document.

OTC identification documents of the types mentioned above can take anumber of forms, depending on cost and desired features. Some OTC IDdocuments comprise highly plasticized polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or have acomposite structure with polyester laminated to 0.5-2.0 mil (13-51.mu.m) PVC film, which provides a suitable receiving layer for heattransferable dyes which form a photographic image, together with anyvariant or invariant data required for the identification of the bearer.These data are subsequently protected to varying degrees by clear, thin(0.125-0.250 mil, 3-6 .mu.m) overlay patches applied at the print head,holographic hot stamp foils (0.125-0.250 mil 3-6 .mu.m), or a clearpolyester laminate (0.5-10 mil, 13-254 .mu.m) supporting common securityfeatures. These last two types of protective foil or laminate sometimesare applied at a laminating station separate from the print head. Thechoice of laminate dictates the degree of durability and securityimparted to the system in protecting the image and other data.

FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate a front view and cross-sectional view (takenalong the A-A line), respectively, of an exemplary prior artidentification (ID) document 10. In FIG. 1, the prior art ID document 1includes a photographic image 12, a bar code 14 (which may containinformation specific to the person whose image appears in photographicimage 12 and/or information that is the same from ID document to IDdocument), variable personal information 16, such as an address,signature, and/or birthdate, and biometric information 18 associatedwith the person whose image appears in photographic image 12 (e.g., afingerprint). Although not illustrated in FIG. 1, the ID document 10 caninclude a magnetic stripe (which, for example, can be on the rear side(not shown) of the ID document 10), and various security features, suchas a security pattern (for example, a printed pattern comprising atightly printed pattern of finely divided printed and unprinted areas inclose proximity to each other, such as a fine-line printed securitypattern as is used in the printing of banknote paper, stockcertificates, and the like).

Referring to FIG. 2, the ID document 10 comprises a pre-printed core 20(such as, for example, white polyvinyl chloride (PVC) material) that is,for example, about 25 mil thick. The core 20 is laminated with atransparent material, such as clear PVC material 22, which, by way ofexample, can be about 1-5 mil thick. The composite of the core 20 andclear PVC material 22 form a so-called “card blank” 25 that can be up toabout 30 mils thick. Information 26 a-c is printed on the card blank 25using a method such as Dye Diffusion Thermal Transfer (“D2T2”) printing(described further in commonly assigned U.S. Pat. No. 6,066,594, whichis incorporated hereto by reference in its entirety.) The information 26a-c can, for example, comprise an indicium or indicia, such as theinvariant or nonvarying information common to a large number ofidentification documents, for example the name and logo of theorganization issuing the documents. The information 26 a-c may be formedby any known process capable of forming the indicium on the specificcore material used.

To protect the information 26 a-c that is printed, an additional layerof overlaminate 24 can be coupled to the card blank 25 and printing 26a-c using, for example, 1 mil of adhesive (not shown). The overlaminate24 can be substantially transparent. Materials suitable for forming suchprotective layers are known to those skilled in the art of makingidentification documents and any of the conventional materials may beused provided they have sufficient transparency. Examples of usablematerials for overlaminates include biaxially oriented polyester orother optically clear durable plastic film.

Because ID documents 10 can be used to enable and facilitate personalidentification, it often is desirable to manufacture the ID document 10in a manner to deter counterfeiting and/or fraudulent alteration. Thereare a number of known ways to increase the security of ID documents 10,including methods that incorporate additional information or securityfeatures and methods that adapt existing information on the card to helpprevent or make evident fraud. For example, numerous types oflaminations have been employed in which the information-bearing surfaceis heat or solvent-laminated to a transparent surface. The materials forand the process of lamination are selected such that if an attempt ismade to uncover the information-bearing surface for amendment thereof,the surface is destroyed, defaced or otherwise rendered apparent theattempted intrusion.

While an identification card that essentially cannot be disassembledwithout being destroyed may provide suitable resistance againstfraudulent alteration, it might not significantly challenge all attemptsof counterfeiting. The counterfeiting of identification cards also caninvolve the fabrication and issuance of identification cards by personsnot authorized to do so. Such counterfeiting presents additional anddifferent security problems to the art. One possible way of preventingfraudulent fabrication and issuing could involve strict control over thepossession of the materials and equipment involved in the fabrication ofthe identification card. In some instances, however, this approach isimpractical and/or impossible, especially if any of the materialsinvolved are commercially available and used in other applications.

One response to the counterfeiting problem has involved the integrationof verification features that are difficult to copy by hand or bymachine. One such verification feature is the use in the card of asignature of the card's issuer or bearer. Other verification featureshave involved, for example, the use of watermarks, biometricinformation, microprinting, fluorescent materials, fine line details,validation patterns or marking, and polarizing stripes. Theseverification features are integrated into an identification card invarious ways and they may be visible or invisible in the finished card.If invisible, they can be detected by viewing the feature underconditions which render it visible. At least some of the verificationfeatures discussed above have been employed to help prevent and/ordiscourage counterfeiting. However, at least some of the features can beexpensive and, in the case of features hidden from casual visualinspection, require specialized equipment and trained operator forauthentication. It would be advantageous if an ID document included asecurity feature that would be difficult to reproduce either in acounterfeited document or by the fraudulent alteration of an original,but would for authentication require neither specialized equipment nortrained operators.

One possible solution to the desire to provide visible,self-authenticating security features on cards is using a so-calledlenticular lens and lenticular image. A lenticular image is comprised ofa sequence of images that are interlaced to form a singular image, whereeach individual image (or frame) is viewable at a different angle to theviewer when viewed through a lenticular lens. These various images aretermed views.

For example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,869,946 (“the '946 patent”) issued Sep. 26,1989 describes a tamperproof security card comprised of a transparentupper layer having narrow parallel lenses on the outer surface, and animage containing substrate, the two layers forming a lenticular systemby which images on the substrate are selectively visible depending uponthe angle from which the card is viewed. The disclosure of this patent,insofar as it relates to the structure and operation of lenticularsystems, is incorporated herein by reference. The embodiments disclosedin the '946 patent appear to contemplate having lenticular lens materialover the entire surface of a card. In addition, the '946 patent statesthat the individual data image which is to be viewed through thelenticular lens is formed by laying down a photographic emulsion on animage substrate layer by means of a lenticular system (col. 3, lines11-20).

It can be difficult to print variable/personalized information on IDdocuments using known methods, especially if the variable/personalizedinformation varies in type, size, and location from card to card and ifit is not desired that the entire card incorporate a lenticular lensfeature. Because registration of the image to the lens can be importantin ensuring good transitions in image appearance from one view toanother, known systems have used simpler lenticular lens features, suchas using the same pair of images (e.g., a pair of logos) on every card.A number of known systems, such as the '946 patent, also utilize thelens itself as a means to lay down the image to be viewed by it. Oneprior art system even uses a laser to engrave an image through thelenticular lens. Using the lens to create an image can be impracticalfor high volume applications (such as the aforementioned CI systems),where variable image data is printed on a core or substrate and/or on alaminate affixed to the core or substrate. In some situations, using alens to create an image might limit the quality of the resultant image,because the angle at which the information is written requires a highdegree of precision, increasing manufacturing costs.

Some other known systems print the multiple images on the lens itself,instead of on the substrate to which the lens attaches. Printing on thelens can make it difficult to achieve good registration between the lensand the image, which can result in poor image transition from one imageto the other as image is viewed at varying angles. Printing on the lensalso can limit the ability to handle images of varying sizes. Further,printing on a lens can be very difficult to do in high volumemanufacturing environments such as making drivers licenses, becausedrivers licenses can have several formats which vary for differentholders (e.g. under 21 driver, learners, and driver ID), and theaforementioned CI type driver license system can produce licenses formore than one state, which might involve using different art work andsecurity features in different locations. It is inconvenient andexpensive to have to change consumables (e.g., lens sheets) to enablevaried printing.

It could be advantageous if the variable or personalized informationassociated with a card bearer could be used as a security feature, in amanner where the security feature is difficult to detect and/orduplicates, yet still able to be printable on the card at the time ofcard personalization. It could be advantageous if an identificationdocument with a multiple image lenticular lens feature that usespersonal information could be manufactured using conventional,inexpensive consumables already being used in the manufacture ofidentification documents (e.g., without requiring the use of expensivelenticular lens sheets). It further could be advantageous if anidentification document could have a personalized full color multipleimage lenticular lens feature.

The invention provides methods for making identification documents andidentification documents with optically variable security features. Onemethod provides image information arranged to include at least twodifferent images. The method uses pressure to form a lens profile in alaminate, including combining the laminate with ink representing theimage information to form the document. The document is formed togetherwith the laminate and ink or dye such that the lens profile enablesdisplay of the at least two different images when the document is viewedat different predetermined angles.

An information bearing document comprises a core layer, an image layerdepicting at least two different images, and a laminate layer. Thelaminate layer is pressed on the core layer such that it forms a lensprofile that enables display of the at least two different images whenthe document is viewed at different predetermined angles.

Systems and methods are provided for making a secure ID card withmultiple images. Printed information in the form of an interlaced image(which includes the interlacing of at least two images) is provided toan information-bearing layer. A substantially transparent film materialis provided to substantially cover the information-bearing layer. A lensprofile is embossed in a selected portion of the film material, such asthe portion that at least partially covers the interlaced material. Theportion of the interlaced image that is covered by the lenticular lenswill present a different appearance depending on the angle at which theinterlaced image is viewed. With the arrangement of the firstembodiment, a secure ID card with multiple images security feature canbe provided on a portion of the ID card while information on the otherportions of the ID card are not obscured by the lenticular lens. Inaccordance with a further aspect of the invention, the lenticular lenscan be fabricated prior to ID card construction and aligned with the IDcard in order to provide the multiple images security feature on aportion of the ID card.

A method for making a secure ID card with multiple images is provided.Information is provided to an information bearing layer, the informationconstructed and arranged to be, capable of providing multiple imageswhen printed information is viewed at different predetermined anglesthrough an appropriate lens. At least a portion of the information iscovered with a substantially a transparent film material. A lens profileis embossed on at least a second portion of the film material, theembossing forming a lens on the film material, the lens enabling theinformation to display multiple images when the information-bearinglaminar assembly is viewed at different predetermined angles.

One embodiment provides an information bearing document having at leastfirst side, the information bearing document comprising a core layer, aninterlaced image, and a lenticular lens. The interlaced image is formedon the core layer, the interlaced image comprising at least two imagesconstructed and arranged to provide at least two images when theninterlaced image is viewed through a predetermined lenticular lensthrough at least two different predetermined angles. The lenticular lensis operably coupled to at least a portion of the interlaced image, thelenticular lens constructed and arranged be operable with the interlacedimage to enable at least two images in the interlaced image to beviewable through the lenticular lens at two different angles.

The foregoing and other features and advantages of the present inventionwill be even more readily apparent from the following DetailedDescription, which proceeds with reference to the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The advantages, features, and aspects of embodiments of the inventionwill be more fully understood in conjunction with the following detaileddescription and accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is an illustrative example of a prior art identificationdocument;

FIG. 2 is an illustrative cross section of the prior art identificationdocument of FIG. 1, taken along the A-A line;

FIG. 3 is a view of an ID document illustrating the multiple images, inaccordance with one embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional schematic view of the ID document of FIG. 3,taken generally across line 1C-1C of FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 is a top schematic view of the ID document of FIG. 3, viewed froma first angle;

FIG. 6 is a top schematic view the ID document of FIG. 3, viewed from asecond angle;

FIGS. 7A-B are illustrative examples of a first security image, inoriginal and pre-interlaced form, respectively, relevant to the creationof a multiple image security feature shown in the ID document of FIG. 3;

FIGS. 8A-8B are illustrative examples of a second security image, inoriginal and pre-interlaced form, respectively, relevant to the creationof a multiple image security feature shown in the ID document of FIG. 3;

FIG. 9 is an illustrative example of a multiple image security featurecreated by interlacing the first and second security images of FIGS. 7A,7B, 8A, and 8B, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 10 is an illustrative flow chart showing a method for creating themultiple image security feature of FIG. 9, in accordance with oneembodiment of the invention;

FIG. 11 is an illustrative diagram of a first central issue cardproduction system that can be used to produce the ID document of FIG. 3,in accordance with one embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 12 is a detailed view of a portion of the embosser of FIG. 11;

FIGS. 13A-D are front, cross-sectional, enlarged, and perspective views,respectively of the lenticular die of the embosser of FIG. 11;

FIGS. 14A-D are cross-sectional, perspective, side, and edge views,respectively, of the insulator plate of the embosser of FIG. 11;

FIGS. 15A-D are top, cross-sectional, edge, and perspective views,respectively, of the heater bar of the insulator plate of FIGS. 14A-Dand FIG. 11;

FIG. 16 is a flow chart of a first method for manufacturing the IDdocument of FIG. 3 using the system of FIG. 11, in accordance with oneembodiment of the invention;

FIG. 17 is a flow chart of a second method for manufacturing the IDdocument of FIG. 3 in a central issue environment;

FIG. 18 is an illustrative diagram of a second central issue cardproduction system that can be used to produce the ID document of FIG. 3,in accordance with one embodiment of the invention; and

FIG. 19 is an illustration of a portion of a laminate roll showing alaminate with lenticular lenses embossed thereon.

The drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead generallybeing placed upon illustrating the principles of the invention. Inaddition, in the figures, like numbers refer to like elements.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In the foregoing discussion, the use of the word “ID document” isbroadly defined and intended to include all types of ID documents,including (but not limited to), documents, magnetic disks, credit cards,bank cards, phone cards, stored value cards, prepaid cards, smart cards(e.g., cards that include one more semiconductor chips, such as memorydevices, microprocessors, and microcontrollers), contact cards,contactless cards, proximity cards (e.g., radio frequency (RFID) cards),passports, driver's licenses, network access cards, employee badges,debit cards, security cards, visas, immigration documentation, nationalID cards, citizenship cards, social security cards and badges,certificates, identification cards or documents, voter registrationand/or identification cards, police ID cards, border crossing cards,security clearance badges and cards, gun permits, badges, giftcertificates or cards, membership cards or badges, and tags. It is evencontemplated that aspects of the invention may have applicability fordevices such as compact disks, consumer products, knobs, keyboards,electronic components, etc., or any other suitable items or articlesthat may record information, images, and/or other data, which may beassociated with a function and/or an object or other entity to beidentified. Note also that, for the purposes of this disclosure, theterms “document,” “card,” “badge” and “documentation” are usedinterchangeably.

In addition, in the foregoing discussion, “identification” includes (butis not limited to) information, decoration, and any other purpose forwhich an indicia can be placed upon an article in the article's raw,partially prepared, or final state. Also, instead of ID documents, theinventive techniques can be employed with product tags, productpackaging, business cards, bags, charts, maps, labels, etc., etc.,particularly those items including marking of an laminate orover-laminate structure. The term ID document thus is broadly definedherein to include these tags, labels, packaging, cards, etc.

“Personalization”, “Personalized data” and “variable” data are usedinterchangeably herein, and refer at least to data, images, andinformation that is “personal to” or “specific to” a specific cardholderor group of cardholders. Personalized data can include data that isunique to a specific cardholder (such as biometric information, imageinformation, serial numbers, Social Security Numbers, privileges acardholder may have, etc.), but is not limited to unique data.Personalized data can include some data, such as birthdate, height,weight, eye color, address, etc., that are personal to a specificcardholder but not necessarily unique to that cardholder (for example,other cardholders might share the same personal data, such asbirthdate). In at least some embodiments of the invention,personal/variable data can include some fixed data, as well.

“Laminate” and “overlaminate” include (but are not limited to) film andsheet products. Laminates usable with at least some embodiments of theinvention include those which contain substantially transparent polymersand/or substantially transparent adhesives, or which have substantiallytransparent polymers and/or substantially transparent adhesives as apart of their structure, e.g., as an extruded feature. Examples ofpotentially usable laminates include at least polyester, polycarbonate,polystyrene, cellulose ester, polyolefin, polysulfone, and polyamide.Laminates can be made using either an amorphous or biaxially orientedpolymer as well. The laminate can comprise a plurality of separatelaminate layers, for example a boundary layer and/or a film layer. Otherpossibly usable laminates include security laminates, such as atransparent laminate material with proprietary security technologyfeatures and processes, which protects documents of value fromcounterfeiting, data alteration, photo substitution, duplication(including color photocopying), and simulation by use of materials andtechnologies that are commonly available. Laminates also can includethermosetting materials, such as epoxy. Laminates can include syntheticresin-impregnated or coated base materials composed of successive layersof material, bonded together via heat, pressure, and/or adhesive.

The material(s) from which a laminate is made may be transparent, butneed not be. The degree of transparency of the laminate can, forexample, be dictated by the information contained within theidentification document, the particular colors and/or security featuresused, etc. The thickness of the laminate layers is not critical,although in some embodiments it may be preferred that the thickness of alaminate layer be about 1-20 mils. Lamination of any laminate layer(s)to any other layer of material (e.g., a core layer) can be accomplishedusing any conventional lamination process, and such processes are wellknown to those skilled in the production of articles such asidentification documents. Of course, the types and structures of thelaminates described herein are provided only by way of example, thoseskilled in the art will appreciated that many different types oflaminates are usable in accordance with the invention. Variouslamination processes are disclosed in assignee's U.S. Pat. Nos.5,783,024, 6,007,660, 6066594, and 6,159,327. Other lamination processesare disclosed, e.g., in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,283,188 and 6,003,581. Each ofthese U.S. patents is herein incorporated by reference.

For purposes of illustration, the following description will proceedwith reference to ID document structures (such as TESLIN-core,multi-layered ID documents) and fused polycarbonate structures. Itshould be appreciated, however, that the present invention is not solimited. Indeed, as those skilled in the art will appreciate, theinventive techniques can be applied to many other structures formed inmany different ways to provide a multiple image feature thereon.Generally, the invention has applicability for virtually any productwhich is to be printed and especially those products which need to beuniquely identified and/or protected against fraud and/or tampering. Forexample, at least some embodiments of the invention are usable to formmultiple image features on articles formed from paper, wood, cardboard,paperboard, glass, metal, plastic, fabric, ceramic, rubber, along withmany man-made materials, such as microporous materials, single phasematerials, two phase materials, coated paper, synthetic paper (e.g.,TYVEC, manufactured by Dupont Corp of Wilmington, Del.), foamedpolypropylene film (including calcium carbonate foamed polypropylenefilm), plastic, polyolefin, polyester, polyethylenetelphthalate (PET),PET-G, PET-F, and polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and combinations thereof.

It is further anticipated that the invention could even haveapplicability in manufacturing articles which are to have a multipleimage feature formed thereon, but where the multiple image feature isnot necessarily provided as a security feature. For example, it isanticipated that the invention has applicability in forming decorativemultiple image features and/or customized multiple image features.

In one embodiment, the invention provides a novel information-bearinglaminar assembly that would be suitable for use as or incorporated intoan identification document, such as the ID document 10 of FIG. 1. Theinformation-bearing laminar assembly of this embodiment is characterizedby the provision therein, as a security feature, a lenticular lensportion disposed on an outer transparent layer, which provides multipleimages in conjunction with information printed on an information-bearinglayer. In at least one embodiment, the multiple images include at leastone image that includes variable/personal information. In at least oneembodiment, the multiple images include at least one color image, suchas a full color portrait.

FIG. 3 is a view of an information bearing laminar assembly 100 (alsoreferred to as ID card 100) illustrating the multiple images, inaccordance with one embodiment of the invention, and FIG. 4 is across-sectional schematic view of the ID card 100 of FIG. 3, takengenerally across line 1C-1C of FIG. 3. Note that the view of FIG. 3, inwhich both of the variable images are visible, is not a view thatnecessarily can be seen by a user, but is merely provided to illustratethe juxtaposition and location of the multiple images. As the ID card100 is rotated, the security images 130, 130′ appear to “disappear” asshown in FIGS. 5 and 6. The disappearance of the image is due to thefocus of the lens in the areas of no print. As the ID card 100 isrotated about its horizontal axis, the focal point of the lens movesvertically up or down and oscillates between the two images. The lensfeature magnifies the print located at this focal point, resulting inexpanding the print to appear as a continuous single image. In at leastone embodiment, instead of lines, individual dots (e.g., of ink ortoner) could be used to represent the line and the feature would work inthe same manner.

Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the ID card 100 includes aninformation-bearing layer 106 having a first surface 104. The firstsurface 104 includes a multiple image portion 120 which further includesfirst and second security images 130, 130′. For illustrative purposesonly, the first security image 130 is shown as a reduced size portrait130 (which, for security purposes, can match the standard size portrait122), and the second security image 130′, is shown to be a birthdate.The first and second security images 130, 130′ can, however, bevirtually any type of information that is useful and/or usable, giventhe type and use of the ID card 100. For example, the first and secondsecurity images 130, 130′ can be any pair chosen from information suchas biometric information (e.g., fingerprint), signatures, birthdates,serial numbers, government identification numbers (e.g., Social SecurityNumbers), images of the bearer of the ID card 100, address, accountnumber, security classification, expiration date, and the like. Althoughit is advantageous for security purposes that one or both of the firstand second security images 130, 130′ include variable/personalinformation, in at least one embodiment it is not necessary that either(or both) security images comprise variable information. In oneembodiment, for example, the first and second security images 130, 130′could comprise nonvarying information, especially if the nonvaryinginformation is printed using a substance (e.g., optically varying ornon-visible ink) that increases the difficulty of copying the ID card100. In one embodiment either or both of the security images couldcomprise pre-printed fixed or nonvarying information. Furthermore, thoseskilled in the art will appreciate that many different types ofinformation (in fact, virtually any type of information) is usable. Forexample, in one embodiment of the invention, either or both of thesecurity images are color images, such as single color images,pearlescent colors, rainbow colors, multicolors, and full colors.

Note that the invention is not limited to using any specific inks orequipment to print any of the features, including the interlaced imagesdescribed herein. Inks such as ultraviolet (UV), infrared (IR), etc. areusable in at least some embodiments of the invention, as well as inksthat are toner-based and/or UV-curable. Further, in at least someembodiments of the invention, the equipment and/or printing presses usedcan include offset, digital variable offset, inkjet, laser toner-based,etc.

It also will be appreciated that the first and second security images130, 130′, in at least some embodiments, can even comprise the sameimage or different forms of the same image. For example, the firstsecurity image 130 could be a front facing portrait of a card bearer andthe second security image 130′ could be a profile image of the cardbearer. In at least some embodiments, the first security image 130 couldbe a visible portrait image of a card bearer and the second securityimage 130′ could be the same portrait image of the card bearer, butprinted in a non-visible ink (e.g., UV or IR ink) or an opticallyvariable ink. Many different possible combinations are contemplated tobe within the spirit and scope of the invention.

Referring again to FIGS. 3 and 4, the first surface 104 also can includeother information, such as fixed information 19 (here, the name of theissuing authority) and variable/personal information, such as, aportrait 122, an address 16 and biometric information 18. Note that anyor all of the variable/personal information could be part of themultiple image portion 120.

FIG. 5 is a top schematic view of the ID document of FIG. 3, viewed froma first angle, showing that only the first security image 130 is visibleat the first angle. FIG. 6 is a top schematic view the ID document ofFIG. 3, viewed from a second angle, showing that only the secondsecurity image 130′ is visible at the second angle.

Referring again to FIG. 4, it can be seen that the information-bearinginner layer 106 is disposed beneath a light transmissive outer laminatelayer 102 having lenticules 116 a through 116 n formed thereon. Thelenticules 116 and laminate layer 102 together form a lenticular lens.At time, in this specification, “lenticule” and “lenticular lens” may beused interchangeably. The illustrative embodiment of FIG. 4 illustratesthat the information bearing inner layer 106 is interposed between twolight transmissive outer layers 102 and 114, but not all embodiments ofthe invention require that there be light transmissive outer layersaffixed to both surfaces of the information bearing inner layer 106.

In at least one embodiment, the information bearing inner layer 106corresponds to a core layer (also referred to as a substrate) of anidentification document. In at least one embodiment, the informationbearing inner layer 106 is made from a substantially opaque material,such as TESLIN. Other rigid or semi-rigid planar materials can, ofcourse, be used. Further, it will be appreciated that the invention canbe adapted to work with many other materials used as an informationbearing layer 106, such as thermoplastic, polymer, copolymer,polycarbonate, fused polycarbonate, polyester, amorphous polyester,polyolefin, silicon-filled polyolefin, foamed polypropylene film,polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene, thermoplastic resins, engineeringthermoplastic, polyurethane, polyamide, polystyrene, expandedpolypropylene, polypropylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS),ABS/PC, high impact polystyrene, polyethylene terephthalate (PET),PET-G, PET-F, polybutylene terephthalate PBT), acetal copolymer (POM),polyetherimide (PEI), polyacrylate, poly(4-vinylpyridine, poly(vinylacetate), polyacrylonitrile, polymeric liquid crystal resin,polysulfone, polyether nitride, and polycaprolactone, and combinationsthereof.

In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 4, the two illustratedlight-transmissive outer layers are adhered to the innerinformation-bearing layer 106 by two adhesive layers 110 and 112,respectively. The adhesives layers 110, 112 need not be providedseparately, but could be already formed on the laminate layer 102. Thefirst outer light-transmissive layer 102 is adhered to the innerinformation-bearing layer 106 by the first adhesive layer 110 and thesecond outer light transmissive layer 114 is adhered to the innerinformation-bearing layer 106 by the second adhesive layer 112. Theouter layer 102 includes a series of parallel lenticular lenses 116a-116 n (generally referred to as lenticular lens 116) which are formedas described below in conjunction with FIGS. 11-17.

In at least on embodiment, some of the 118 a-118 n includesvariable/personal information and is provided on the surface 104 ofinner information-bearing layer 106 that is used in cooperation with thelenticular lenses 116, to provide the multiple image optical effect. Inat least one embodiment of the invention, the information 118 includesinterlaced images that include a color portrait (the creation of suchimages is discussed further herein). The information 118 also couldincludes text or graphics that is representative of data desired to bedisplayed in the information bearing document, or any type ofpersonal/variable data discussed herein. For example, textual data mayinclude, but is not limited to, the name, address, state, or privilegesof the holder of the document. Graphical data may include, but is notlimited to, such items as a photographic image of the holder (in blackand white, grayscale, or color) of the information bearing document, theseal of the state or corporation issuing the document, a trademark, orother security such as a complex geometric pattern.

One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that information 118other than security images could be similarly provided on any surface oninformation-bearing inner layer 106 or outer layers 102 and 108. Inaddition, information could also be provided on either adhesive layer110 and 112. Similarly, one of ordinary skill in the art willappreciate, in light of the teachings provided herein, that theinformation on certain of these surfaces would require the informationto be printed using a reverse format. Further, one of skill in the artwill appreciate that the information 118 could be distributed among aplurality of layers that lie beneath the lenticular lens layer 116.Thus, this disclosure is not intended to be limited to providing theinformation in a particular orientation or to a particular surface.

In addition, the information may be provided on the desired surfaceusing any known techniques. For example, affixing the information couldinclude any process in which a marking material is applied to asubstrate to generate a permanent mark. Thus, one skilled in the artwill appreciate that the invention can be adapted for color and/or blackand white printing techniques, such as photogravure, flexographic andlithographic printing, printing by means of ink jet printers (usingsolid or liquid inks), phase change printers, laser printing, laserengraving and electro photographic printing. For example, laser engravedinformation could be provided on surface 104 of innerinformation-bearing layer 106 creating another level of security.Persons skilled in the printing art will appreciate that with some ofthese printing techniques, the “inks” used need not necessarily beconventional liquid inks but also could be solid phase change inks,solid colors, dyes, etc. This disclosure is intended to include anymeans of affixing the information to a particular desired surface.

The optimal dimensions of the lenticular lens formed by the laminate 102and its lenticules 116 a-116 n for viewing the information 118 are atleast in part dependent on and adapted to suit the thickness of thelaminate layer 102, the thickness of the information printed 118, andthe expected focal length with which the information 118 is to beviewed. For example, in an embodiment of the invention having a standard30 mil thick identification card with D2T2 printing of variableinformation to a TESLIN core, which is to be viewed by a human at adistance of about one to two feet, the focal length is about 0.015inches and depends on the distance between the edge of the lenticularlens and the information 118 printed on the core. In FIG. 4, the rangeof distances to consider is illustrated as “A” and “B” range from about10 to 20 thousandths of an inch.

The number of lenticules 116 per inch ranges, in at least one embodimentof the invention, between about 45 to 100 lines per inch. As thoseskilled in the art will appreciate, the number of lenticules 116required depends at least in part on the resultant size of the multipleimage feature to be created, the number of images being interlaced toform it, and/or the desired “flipping” (e.g., gradual or quick) betweenand among the multiple images.

The lens 116 is preferably transparent at least where the underlyinginformation 118 can be viewed. Underlying information 118 can be anyinformation printed on the information bearing layer 106 or on anylayers disposed between the information bearing layer 106 and the lens116. Therefore, each document can be personalized for the cardholder. Asis understood by those skilled in the art, the design of the lens 116dictates the degree of rotation the ID card 100 needs for viewing theinformation. By rotating the ID card 100, the first and second securityimages 130, 130′ appear to a viewer to appear and disappear.

In one embodiment, lens 16 a is designed to require a rotation of the.ID card 100 to order to view the underlying information. Rotating the IDcard 100 causes the underlying information to seem to appear anddisappear as viewed through the lens 116, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6. Aswill be described herein, the technique of printing the interlaced imageon the information bearing layer 106 (e.g., a core layer in anidentification card) instead of on the lens (formed by the laminatelayer 102 and lenticules 116), enables the interlaced image to beprinted with variable color information, if desired.

The lenticules 116 of FIG. 4 can be achieved in several ways, includingby embossing the laminate material 102 after it is laminated to theinformation bearing layer 106 (which is described more fully in FIGS.11-17), and by using a purchased lenticular lens sheet, such as oneprovided by Orasee Corporation of Duluth, Ga. The lenticules 116 can beachieved with any optical thermoplastic material including but notlimited to polycarbonate, polyester, polyurethane, cellulose acetates,polystyrenes, polyvinyl chloride, and polyethylene. In at least oneembodiment, the embossing process does not induce any crystallinity ormarring of the surface. Some polyester materials show low levels ofcrystallinity during the embossing process. Generally, this can beovercome by processing conditions, but if crystallinity ensues theoptical properties could be sacrificed by the reduction in transmission.Advantageously, the outer layers 102 and 114 are substantially opticallyclear within the visible spectrum. A suitable material is an amorphouspolyethylene terephthalate (also referred to as “PET”) sheet 34, forexample, the PET sheet sold by Transilwrap, of Franklin Park, Ill. underthe trade name “TXP.” In general, PET material has good strength andflexibility and has high anti-abrasion properties. Other suitablematerials include like polyesters, which are the reaction products ofthe polymerization of ethylene glycols with polycarboxylic acids.

For adhesive layers 104 and 108, in at least one embodiment of theinvention a usable adhesive material is an ethylene-vinyl acetateadhesive such as KRTY, which is the commercial trade designation for anadhesive available from Transilwrap. Other heat- or pressure-activatedadhesive can of course be utilized, the selection thereof depending onthe nature of the processes by which the inner-information bearing layer106 is to be coupled to the outer protective layers 102 and 114. For aheat-activated adhesive, one can employ an ethylene ethyl acrylatecopolymer of an ethylene ethyl acrylate or mixture thereof, as well asany of a number of polyolefinic hot melts.

FIGS. 7A-B are illustrative examples of a first security image, inoriginal and pre-interlaced form, respectively, relevant to the creationof a multiple image security feature shown in the ID document of FIG. 3.

FIG. 7A shows a first security image 130 (the cross hatches shown arefor illustrative purposes and do not necessarily represent what is shownin an image) before interlacing. FIG. 7B illustrates what is here termeda pre-interlaced first security image 132, representing the portion offirst security image that is to be interlaced. The pre-interlaced firstsecurity image 132 is not necessarily an image that is separatelycreated. Rather, the pre-interlaced first security image 132 representsone example showing the parts of the first security image 130 that couldbe used to create an interlace image that could be placed as information118 on an ID card 100 that is viewable through the lenticules 116affixed to the card (See FIGS. 3-6).

FIGS. 8A-8B are illustrative examples of a second security image 130′,in original and pre-interlaced form, respectively, relevant to thecreation of a multiple image security feature shown in the ID documentof FIG. 3. FIG. 8B is similar to FIG. 7B in that it illustrated apre-interlaced second security image 132′, representing the portion ofthe second security image that is to be interlaced. The pre-interlacedsecond security image 132′ is not necessarily an image that isseparately created. Rather, the pre-interlaced second security image132′ represents one example showing the parts of the second securityimage 130′ that could be used to create an interlace image that could beplaced as information 118 on an ID card 100 that is viewable through thelenticules 116 affixed to the card (See FIGS. 3-6).

FIG. 9 is an illustrative example of a multiple image security featurecreated by interlacing the first and second security images of FIGS. 7A,7B, 8A, and 8B, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention, inthe manner contemplated by the flow chart of FIG. 10, which is nowdescribed.

FIG. 10 is an illustrative flow chart showing a method for creating themultiple image security feature 120 of FIG. 9, in accordance with oneembodiment of the invention. Although this flow chart describes theprocess for creating a multiple image security feature 120 that is madefrom two security images, those skilled in the art will appreciate thatthis method readily can be adapted to interlace more than two images. Inaddition, although the term “security image” is used in this discussionby way of example, it is not limited to including just image type files,but also characters/strings.

In step 200, the desired first and second security images are received(step 200) for this process. The security image can be virtually anytype of image or data. For example, in at least one embodiment, thesecurity image is a string of one or more characters, such as abirthdate. The string can be in any font or color, and can include fixedand/or variable information. The string can be supplied in many ways,such as from a database, entered by hand, or extracted from a file.

In at least one embodiment, the security image is part of an image thatwas captured from a subject, such as a facial portrait, a fingerprint,or a signature. For example, in at least one embodiment, several piecesof such information about a subject can be stored in an object file thatis usable as a security image input. In one embodiment, the method ofFIG. 10 receives information in the form of a personal object filecalled a .poff file (formerly known as a POLAROID object file). Thefollowing provide some further information about the .poff file formatused in accordance with at least some embodiments of the invention

POFF Files

This file format is designed to encapsulate all the data needed toprocess an individual ID card. All the data needed to print and handlethe card will be included in the file. This permits this file to beshipped as an entity across a network where it can be printed, displayedor verified without need for additional information. The specific fieldsand their order in text area are not specified, there is a provision fora separate block of labels for the fields for display purposes. Theformat is suitable for encoding on ‘smart cards’ as well as transmissionand printing of the records.

The image file formats were chosen for their compatibility with theAAMVA standards and for their widespread acceptance as file formats inpopular applications and libraries.

Notes:

AAMVA (American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators) has begunwork on a transmission standard for Image/Text data and is revising itsbest practices guide for image storage format. This format may have tobe revised to conform with this new standard.

The AAMVA baseline standard for signatures is currently 8 bit grayscale(JPEG compressed), the standard also supports bi-level with CCITT group3 or 4 as an accepted alternate. It needs to be determined with of theseformats is preferred by the marketplace.

Typical US DMV Files Contain the Following Blocks

Text Block (tag 0x0001)

JPG Portrait Block (tag 0x0011 or tag 0x0211)

ID-3000 or TIF Signature Block (tag 0x0420 or 0x0520)

They may optionally include fingerprint blocks

File Format

Header POFF 4 byte literal Version 2 byte unsigned integer (high bytemajor version low byte minor version) Object Count 2 byte unsignedinteger File Length 4 byte unsigned integer Directory Area DirectoryChecksum 4 byte unsigned integer Object Type Tag 2 byte unsigned integer[Beginning of directory] Length of Object 4 byte unsigned integer Offsetof Object 4 byte unsigned integer [from beginning of file] . . .additional directory entrys End of Directory Tag Data Area Object TypeTag 2 bytes [Included in length of object] Object Checksum 4 bytesObject Data . . . additional data sectionsChecksums are the 32 bit unsigned integer sums of all the bytes in thechecksum range, for data sections the checksum range is all the bytesthat follow the checksum until the next object tag, for the directoryarea the checksum range is all the individual directory entrys (thelength should be 6 times the object object count). The length in theheader is the length of the original data object (it does not includethe tag an the checksum).

Standard DMV File Layout

Header.

Directory

Text Data

Portrait

Signature

Data Formats

All numeric values are in Intel x86 format (byte order)

Color Images

Primary Format

-   -   .JPG (JPEG File Interchange Format)

Alternate Formats

-   -   .TIF (JPEG Compresessed TIFF)    -   ID-3000 Version 2.2+ Compatible format with marker codes

B+W Images

.PCX (CCITT Group 3 or 4 Compatible Modes)

.JPG (8 bit grayscale JFIF compressed)

.TIF (Any B&W or Grayscale TIFF 6 Compatible File Format)

Text Data (or Labels)

.CSV (comma separated value)

A comma as data is represented by ESC, or by single quoting field

Two commas together indicates a blank field

All other characters must be printable ASCII Text (32-126,128-254)

Data Tags

Text 0x0001 Text Field Labels 0x0002 Double Byte Text 0x0101 (for usewith Asian character sets) Double Byte Labels 0x0102 (for use with Asiancharacter sets) Front Portrait 0x0011 JFIF (JPG File format) Left ViewPortrait 0x0012 JFIF (JPG File format) Right View Portrait 0x0013 JFIF(JPG File format) Front Portrait 0x0111 TIFF Left View Portrait 0x0112TIFF Right View Portrait 0x0113 TIFF Front Portrait 0x0211 ID-3000 LeftView Portrait 0x0212 ID-3000 Right View Portrait 0x0213 ID-3000Signature 0x0020 Bi-Level PCX (group 3 or 4) Signature 0x0120 Grayscale(JFIF Compressed) Signature 0x0220 Grayscale (JTIF Compressed) Signature0x0320 ID-3000 Grayscale Signature 0x0420 ID-3000 Binary Signature0x0520 TIFF (any TIFF 6.0 type) Bitmap Fingerprint Data Right Thumb0x0030 Right Index Finger 0x0031 Rignt Middle Finger 0x0032 Right RingFinger 0x0033 Right Little Finger 0x0034 Left Thumb 0x0038 Left IndexFinger 0x0039 Left Middle Finger 0x003A Left Ring Finger 0x003B LeftLittle Finger 0x003C Minutae Fingerprint Data Right Thumb 0x0130 RightIndex Finger 0x0131 Rignt Middle Finger 0x0132 Right Ring Finger 0x0133Right Little Finger 0x0134 Left Thumb 0x0138 Left Index Finger 0x0139Left Middle Finger 0x013A Left Ring Finger 0x013B Left Little Finger0x013C Digitial Signature Tags CRC Method 0x0040 Polaroid Bingo Method0x0041 Datastream Tags PDF-417 Barcode Data 0x0050 End of Directory0x00FF User Definable Tags 0xFFxx (where xx is 0x00-0xFF) The Tag Patern0x0Fxx is reserved for special operations.

Notes on Tag Types

The Digital signature tags are for improved file security. The system isa compromise between encrypting the actual data elements, and leavingthe data unsecured. A Digital signature object contains a DigitalSignature structure (defined elsewhere) that includes information aboutthe specific object it protects. The original object is unchanged by themethod, an application which wishes to validate the authenticity of anobject builds the signature for the object and compares it to the valuestored in the field.

The Datastream tags are used to represent data that is passed into thesystem for special purpose processing. They are used when the higherlevels of the system do no have the ability to make sense of the datacontained. An specific example of this would be when encrypted data isbeing passed in the system for printing as a barcode.

Now referring again to FIG. 10, virtually any type of pairing ofdifferent (or similar) types of files are possible with the pair offirst and second security images. For example, in one embodiment, thefirst and second security images comprise a string (e.g., charactersrepresenting date of birth) and part of a personal object file, such aportrait image. In one embodiment, the first and second security imagescomprise a pair of personal object file data, such as a portrait and asignature. In at least one embodiment, the first and second securityimages comprise a personal object file data (e.g., a fingerprint image)and a standalone image, which could be a supplied image (e.g., a stateseal or logo). Any of the information (strings, object files, images)can be fixed or variable, and those skilled in the art will appreciatethat different types of cards will have differing security needs and,thus, may require different types of pairs of images.

Referring again to FIG. 10, if the first and second security images arenot already in a predetermined standard size and bitmap form, the firstand second security images are converted (step 205) to bitmap type filesof a standard size. The size is dependent on the desired physical sizeof the multiple image feature on the card. In one embodiment, a softwareproduct usable to accomplish the conversion into a standard bitmappedimage is the LEAD TOOLS 12.0 FOR WINDOWS 32 product available from LeadTechnology, Inc., of Charlotte, N.C.

In step 210, an image row in the image is selected as a starting pointto begin the interlacing. The image row can comprise of, for example asingle row of pixels or can, for example, be multiple rows of pixels.The size of the image row depends on various factors, such as the designof the lens (e.g., lens dimensions), lens features (e.g., lenticules perinch), the size of the first security image, the size of the secondsecurity image, the degree of switching (fast or slow) between imagesthat is desired, focal length, and surface quality.

For example, assume that a lenticular lens formed on the laminate 102(FIG. 3) has about 90 lenticules (also referred to as “lines”) per inch(“lpi”). It is assumed, for the purposes of this example, that thelenticules are oriented so that they are horizontally aligned over asecurity image, although such an orientation is not limiting. In thissame embodiment, the first security image may have a size of 450 pixelslong by 450 pixels wide, with each pixel (assume square pixels) beingabout 0.0011 inches along in length along each side—an image about ahalf inch long and a half inch wide. For an image with those dimensionsand a lenticular lens formed in laminate 102 having 90 lenticules perinch (or 45 lenticules per half inch), there will be a lenticule aboutevery 0.011 inches, or about every 10 pixels. Thus, one type ofinterlacing for the security image is to alternate every 10 pixels(e.g., 10 pixels “on” in the image, 10 pixels “off for a first securityimage, and the reverse for the second security image). The inventorshave determined, however, that the optimum interlacing for the securityimages used in ID documents is a 5 pixel on, 5 pixel off configuration.Referring again to step 210 of FIG. 10, the so-called row size would, inthis example, be 10 pixels.

To determine a starting image row (that is, the row in the image wherethe method begins will begin the “on-off” interlacing, the method ofFIG. 10 uses a one or more predetermined input parameters. In oneembodiment, a user may have a choice, for example, of setting theinterlacing to begin at the top of an image and work down, at the bottomand work up, somewhere in between and work up or down. This is, in oneembodiment, a fixed parameter for all identification documents beingmanufactured in a given “batch” for example.

It is anticipated that the invention can be adapted to be able todetermine the starting image row dynamically, based on the type and/orsize of the first and/or second security images. For example, assumethat the first security image is a full color image portrait having afirst size and the second security image is a text string that can varyfrom user to user (e.g., an address) and thus may have a different“height” for different users (assuming that the text string could “wraparound” to fill the available image space. The method of FIG. 10 andparticularly step 210 can be adapted to select a starting row forinterlacing depending on the “height” of the second security image, tobest provide a substantially complete interlacing between the first andsecond security images. Note also that varying the starting row cancause the image flip angle (or the viewable angle) to change.

Although not specifically addressed in the exampled discussed inconnection with FIG. 10, step 210 of FIG. 10 also takes into accountparameters such as desired size of resultant final interlaced image anddesired fonts and font colors of any characters printed as part of finalinterlaced image. The font colors can include single colors, multiplecolors, rainbows of colors, pearlescent colors, full colors, and thelike, as desired.

In step 215 of FIG. 10, if the first and second images are the samesize, the processing moves to step 230 (discussed below). Note that, inat least one embodiment, two images being the same “size” implies thatthe two images have the same height and width (in pixels). In thisembodiment, if the first and second security images are not the samesize, the interlaced image is created in a different file, but if thefirst and second images are the same size, the interlaced image iscreated by directly interlacing into one of the images (for purposes ofexample, we assume that image to be the first security image, but usingthe second works equally well). Generally, for images of unequal size,the smaller image is interlaced into the larger image.

If the first and second security images are different sized, aninterlace file is defined (step 217) and the interlaced data is writtento it from the first and second security images. The interlace file hasa bitmap format. This begins by writing the desired starting image rawfrom the first security image to the interlace file (step 220). Forexample, if the first security image corresponded to the 450 by 450example described above, the starting image row could be the first 10rows of pixels in the first security image. Next, the desired startingimage row (also, in this example, 10 rows of pixels) is written from thesecond security image (step 225). In one embodiment, this row is writtenin the interlace file to position directly adjacent to the row justwritten from the first security image. As shown in steps 225, 230, and235 this process is alternated back and forth from the first to thesecond security image until the desired amount of interlacing iscomplete or one of the images “runs out” of rows of pixels. Note thatthe method of FIG. 10 can be adapted so that only partial interlacing(e.g., interlacing for, say, 40 lenticules worth of image) is required,so the process of steps 225 through 235 can stop when the desired amountof interlacing is desired.

If one of the images is out of rows, the rows in the other imagecontinue to be written to the interlace file, alternating with rows of“blanks”, until there are either no rows of the image left or thedesired interlacing is complete (step 240). In this embodiment, by“blank” it is meant that the other image will be overwritten with whatever background color (e.g., white, but need not be white) that theinformation bearing layer 106 is. The interlaced image file is thencomplete (step 245) and ready to be provided to a printer for printingon a card (step 250). In at least one embodiment, the resultantinterlaced image file resembles the file shown in FIG. 9.

Referring again to step 215, if the first and second security images arethe same size, it is not required to create a new interlaced image file(although in at least one embodiment it is contemplated that a newinterlaced image file nonetheless can be created in a manner similar tothat described in steps 217 through 250). Rather, one of the securityimages can be “turned into” an interlaced image file via steps 255through 250. For purposes of example only, it is assumed here that thefirst security image is to be “turned into” the interlaced image file.

The starting image row in the first security image is retained (step255) (note that starting image row and subsequent image rows are thesame as defined above). The next image row in the first security imageis overwritten with the starting image row from the second securityimage (step 260). This process continues (alternately overwriting theimage rows in the first security image) until the desired degree ofinterlacing is achieved or all rows are interlaced (step 265). Theresultant interlaced image will have a similar general appearance to theimage of FIG. 9, but will show interlacing of two similarly sizedimages. As a result of steps 255 through 265, the first security imagefile has been converted to an interlaced image file (steps 270 and 275)and is ready to be printed on the substrate.

It will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art thatseveral print technologies including but not limited to indigo (variableoffset) laser xerography (variable printing), offset printing (fixedprinting) and inkjet (variable printing) can be used to print theinformation 118 (which can include the above mentioned interlaced imagefile) on the inner information-bearing layer 106. The information can beprinted using dots or lines of varying colors to form text or images.The information also can comprise process colors or pantone colors. Themultiple image features, can include personal information in a colorformat.

In one embodiment of the invention, the ID card 100 of FIG. 3 can beproduced in a high volume central issue environment. FIG. 11 is anillustrative diagram of a first central issue card production system 500that can be used to produce the ID document of FIG. 3, in accordancewith one embodiment of the invention. The system 500 includes an imagingsystem 505, laminator and die cutter system 504, and a documentproduction and control system 506.

The imaging system includes a back printer 508 for printing the backside of the card and a front printer 510 for printing the front side ofthe card. Each printer has its own high speed controller 514, 515. Thelaminate and die cutter system 504 includes a laminator 522, an embosser524, a die cutter 558, and a laminator/die cutter/embosser controller553. In one embodiment, the laminator/die cutter/embosser controllerhelps to implement the method of FIG. 10.

The document production control system includes central servers 540, areport station 534, a quality control station 536, and a mailer 530. TheQC Station 536 and its associated bar code scanner (not shown) can beused by an operator to scan the bar code of a defective sheet ordocument. Keyboard entry can also be used to report or to checkdocuments and sheets.

Production of the ID document begins at the Imaging System 505, wherecard substrates, such as preprinted TESLIN sheets 516, are fed into theback printer 508. The back sides of the TESLIN sheets 516 can becustomized with desired information (e.g., restriction codes or otherinformation unique to each document on the sheet). In addition, barcodes for tracking the documents through the production process can beadded. As the. TESLIN sheet enters the second section of the ImagingSystem 505, the front printer 510 prints appropriate portrait andsignature images on the front of the documents based on personalizedcardholder information stored in a file. The front printer 510 alsoprints the interlaced images (which, in one embodiment, comes from aninterlaced image file accessible to the laminator/die cutter/embossercontroller 553) on the front of the TESLIN sheets 516. Note that since aplurality of ID documents are being produced simultaneously, the frontprinter 510 can print an interlaced image file for each document ontothe appropriate locations of the TESLIN sheets 516. The output of thefront printer 510 are document sheets 550 printed on the front and back.

As completed sheets accumulate in the output hopper of the ImagingSystem 505, in one embodiment, an operator performs a visual inspectionand transfers the completed sheets to the input hopper of theLaminating/Embossing/Die-Cutting System 504. Any sheets failing visualinspection can be brought to the QC station 536 where their bar code isscanned and production of a replacement automatically ordered. Thefailed sheets are then destroyed.

When the document sheets 550 are about to enter theLaminating/Embossing/Die-Cutting System 504, automatic scanners confirmthat the front and back sheets 550 match, that sheets 550 have not stucktogether, and that the sheets 550 are right side up. After the scanningprocess, the laminator 522 applies the desired laminate material (e.g.,polyester) on both sides (front and back) material to all sheets to forma continuous web of laminated sheets. The embosser 524 then embosses thelaminate to form the lenticules 116 (FIG. 3). In at least oneembodiment, registration marks printed on one or both sides of thesheets 550 help to precisely orient the embosser 524 so that thelenticular lens feature is correctly formed on the interlaced images 120printed on the sheets 550. More details about the embosser 524 areprovided below.

The web of laminated sheets leaves the embosser then passes into the diecutter 558, which cuts the sheet into individual documents. After the IDdocuments are produced and given a final quality control inspection,they are fed into the mailer 530. The mailer prints the applicant'saddress on the card holder and inserts the ID document into the holder.The holder is then inserted into an envelope for mailing

FIG. 12 is a detailed view of the section 526 of the embosser 524 ofFIG. 11. This detailed view shows that an embosser in accordance withone embodiment of the invention includes a plurality of lenticular dies554, an insulator plate 544, and a heater bar 542 in the insulatorplate. The heater bar 542 in the insulator plate helps to keep the die554 laminate at a temperature suitable for the deformation necessary toproduce lenticules during embossing.

Although not visible in FIG. 12, the embosser 524 is capable of up anddown motion 548 to accomplish the embossing process (the techniques fordoing this are not described here and assumed to be within the abilitiesof one skilled in the art). Various parameters, such as time,temperature, pressure, stroke of the press and die design, can beadapted to optimize the operation of embosser 524 for a given IDdocument, laminate, and lenticule size. For example, in one embodiment,when using polycarbonate materials, the embosser 524 uses a temperatureof 425 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 seconds at a pressure of 20 PSIG (lb/in2on the gauge) is used. When using a PET material a temperature of 275degrees Fahrenheit for 5 seconds and a pressure of 20 PSIG is used. Thestroke of the press is set so that the die 554 only enters the surfaceof the laminate so as to emboss the lenticules. If the stroke is toolarge then the card deformation will be excessive. Stroke time andtemperature are interrelated because of a minimum amount of heat isrequired to form the lenses 116. The higher the die 218 temperature thelower the time required to form the lens and vice versa. Pressure andstroke of the press 216 are adjusted to minimize card deformation.Deformation can occur throughout the ID card 100 thickness and show onthe back of the card or at the edges of the card. By optimizing theseadjustments, these effects are reduced to make an acceptable ID card100.

The plurality of lenticular dies 554 enable the embossing of acorresponding plurality of ID documents that pass through in the IDdocument orientation direction 552. Specifically, each lenticular die554 is capable of creating a plurality of lenticules on the laminatethat covers each interlaced image printed on respective ID document. Inthe embodiment shown in FIG. 12, there are 7 lenticular dies 554 thatcan substantially simultaneously emboss 7 different ID documents thatare part of the printed sheets 550. It will be appreciated, however,that the laminator 524 of FIGS. 11 and 12 also could be adapted toemboss a single ID document at a time (e.g., with no subsequent diecutting), or to emboss documents passed through in a form other thansheets to be die cut, such as a 1 by n web (where n is the number of IDdocuments) passing through the embosser 524.

FIGS. 13A-D are illustrative top, cross-sectional, enlarged, andisometric views, respectively of the lenticular die 554 of the embosserof FIG. 11. The lenticular die 554 can be formed from many differentmaterials, including metals, ceramics, composites, and the like.

The quality of the surface of die 554 can have a significant impact onthe quality and “on off” effect of the lenticules that it forms. Forinstance, if a rough surface is generated from the manufacturing processof the embossing die 554, the rough surface could be transferred to thelenticular lens 116 and the functionality could suffer, accordingly.Note also that various machining processes can be used do createdifferent depths of the sinusoidal patterns of the die 554 shown in FIG.13( c). In one embodiment, an electrical discharge machining (EDM)processes are used make the die 218 having a surface roughness of #16 orbetter.

In one embodiment, the resultant lenticules formed by the die 554 can beimproved by electroplating the die 554 with various materials such asTEFLON, Polyond, Ni-plating, Cu plating or Cr-plating. As those skilledin the art will appreciate, the plating depends on the die material andthe compatibility of the plating material.

In one embodiment the die 554 can be plated then coated over the platingwith a polytetrafluoroethylene coating to reduce, the adhesion of thedie 554 to the laminate. Referring to FIGS. 3 and 13, the upperlight-transmissive outer layers 102 material might require some moldrelease agents to prevent the die 218 from sticking to the ID card 100after the embossing process. When the die 554, begins to ascend from theID card 100 surface, the die 554 can adhere to the ID card 100, the IDcard 100 and lens 116 w deform and produce a poor product. The level ofmold release is a factor in formulating a material that would optimizethis process. Exterior mold release agents can be used in conjunctionwith internal mold releases to improve the process. The type of exteriormold release will also have an effect.

For purposes of further illustration, FIGS. 14A-D are cross-sectional,perspective, side, and edge views, respectively, of the insulator plateof the embosser of FIG. 11, and FIGS. 15A-D are top, cross-sectional,edge, and perspective views, respectively, of the heater bar of theinsulator plate of FIGS. 14A-D and FIG. 11. The insulator plate andheater bar can be formed of any suitable materials, including mild steel(CRS), glastherm, and high temperature insulating material.

FIG. 16 is a flow chart of a first method for manufacturing the IDdocument of FIG. 3 using the system of FIG. 11, in accordance with oneembodiment of the invention. The detailed description of these methodsteps already has been done in connection with the descriptionaccompanying FIGS. 3, 10, 11, 12, and 13, and is not repeated here.

The above described embodiments were provided to illustrate one aspectof the invention, in which a multiple imaged ID document having alenticular lens feature can be manufactured by laminating the IDdocument then embossing a lenticular lens into the laminate. It shouldbe understood, however, that the invention is not limited solely toforming a lenticular lens after lamination in the above-describedmanner. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that lenticules can beformed after lamination in many different ways. For example, in at leastsome embodiments of the invention the lenticules 116 of theidentification documents described herein can be created by physicallyremoving some of the laminate to achieve the desired shape, such as byetching, engraving, milling, scratching, stamping, abrading, bending,filing, cutting, inscribing, and the like. The removal of the laminatecan be done using any known tooling, through chemical processes (e.g.,chemical etching) or by a laser. It also is contemplated that in atleast some embodiments of the invention, a mold could be used to formthe laminate into lenticules as the laminate is applied to theinformation bearing layer 106.

It is unclear at the time of filing whether roll laminates containing anextrusion formed lens or laminate with previously formed lenses andrespective registration marks for later lamination processes to form IDdocuments are available. However, the invention proposes a method tomake such a roll laminate, below.

In another aspect of the invention, the formation of lenticules 116 onthe laminate 102 occurs prior to the laminating of the laminate to theinformation bearing layer 106. For example, embossing of the laminate102 with lenticules can occur prior to lamination. In one embodiment, amultiple imaged ID document can be formed by using sheets of laminatehaving lenticular lenses already formed thereon. A separate process stepcan be used to form the lenticular lenses on the laminate. Thisembodiment of the invention can be achieved using a system similar tothe system shown in FIG. 11. Instead of providing an embosser 524,however, a system of this aspect provides a roll of laminate materialthat includes lenticular lenses formed thereon. Advantageously, thelaminate having lenticular lenses formed thereon also includesregistration marks within the laminate, to assist in accuratelyregistering the lenticular lens to the interlaced image as the laminateis laminated to the image.

For example, FIG. 17 is a flow chart of a method for manufacturing theID document of FIG. 3 in a central issue environment where the creationof lenticules on the laminate 103 occurs prior to lamination, FIG. 18 isan illustrative diagram of a second central issue card production system500′ that can be used to produce the ID document of FIG. 3 in accordancewith the method of FIG. 17, and FIG. 19 is an illustration of a portionof a laminate roll 800 showing laminate having lenticular lenses 116formed thereon.

Referring to FIG. 17, laminate is provided (step 700). The laminate canbe any laminate described previously that also is capable of beingformed into lenticules. As will be readily understood by those in theart, the laminate can be provided in any usable form, such a s pellet,powder, hot melt, and the like. The laminate is extruded (step 703) in amanner known to those skilled in the art, and then the laminate isprocessed so that predetermined areas of the laminate have lenticularlens features (such as the lenticules 116 of FIGS. 3 and 4) formedthereon. In one embodiment, the processing of the laminate comprisesusing one or more known processes to form or emboss the lenticularshapes into predetermined areas of the laminate, prior to the laminatebeing laminated to the card. Such processes can, for example includeembossing rollers, vacuum drums, vacuum forming dies, in linecorrugators and shapers, cutters, punches, etc., all of which aredescribed, e.g., on pages 354-360 of Sidney Levy and James F. Carley,Plastics Extrusion Technology Handbook (2^(nd) ed., New York, 1989).Further, one or more methods detailed in the following U.S. patents alsomay be useable, in at least some embodiments of the invention, forforming the lenticules in the laminate: U.S. Pat. Nos. 2,815310,3,496,263, 4,765,656, 5,560,799. The contents of these patents areincorporated by reference in their entirety. It also will be appreciatedby those skilled in the art that prior to lamination to the card,certain laminates can have lenticules formed thereon by etching,engraving, milling, scratching, stamping, abrading, bending, filing,cutting, inscribing, and the like.

Referring again to FIG. 17, after the lens(es) are formed in thelaminate, registration information is applied to the laminate (710), toensure that the laminate is appropriately aligned to the informationbearing document(s) to which it is attached. FIG. 19 is an illustrationof a portion of a sheet of laminate roll 800 prior to step 715. In FIG.19, it can be seen that a plurality of lenticular lenses 116 are formedin a registered fashion on the sheet of laminate 800. The sheet oflaminate 800 in this example has been formed with divider lines 800thereon, to further assist the later registration and lamination to theinformation bearing layer 106. The dotted lines 810 are provided forillustrative purposes only (these lines are not necessarily on thelaminate) to show where the divisions between ID documents lie. Aregistration mark 812 is provided on one side of the laminate 800 alsowill assist when the laminate 800 is later coupled to the informationbearing layer 106.

In at least one embodiment, the sheet of laminate 800 is part of alarger sheet of laminate that is eventually rolled (step 715) so that itcan be used as the special laminate 559 of FIG. 18. Referring to FIGS.17 and 18, when the documents 550 are fed to the laminator 522, thelaminate is aligned so that each respective lenticular lens 116 isappropriately aligned to a corresponding multiple image feature on theinformation bearing layer 106. (step 720). The identification documentscan then be laminated (step 725) and die cut (step 730) as describedpreviously.

It should be understood that the lenticular multiple image informationof at least some embodiments of the invention can be provided in anycolor, not only black. This is accomplished at least in part because theinterlaced image is printed directly on the card and is produced usingthe original images. If the original images are in color then theinterlaced image can have the same color replicated therein.

Having described and illustrated the principles of the technology withreference to specific implementations, it will be recognized that thetechnology can be implemented in many other, different, forms.

Although certain words, languages, phrases, terminology, and productbrands have been used herein to describe the various features of theembodiments of the invention, their use is not intended as limiting. Useof a given word, phrase, language, terminology, or product brand isintended to include all grammatical, literal, scientific, technical, andfunctional equivalents. The terminology used herein is for the purposeof description and not limitation.

The technology disclosed herein can be used in combination with othertechnologies. Examples include the technology detailed in the followingapplications, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein byreference: Ser. No. 09/747,735 (filed Dec. 22, 2000), Ser. No.09/969,200 (filed Oct. 2, 2001). Also, instead of ID documents, theinventive techniques can be employed with product tags, productpackaging, business cards, bags, charts, maps, labels, etc., etc.,particularly those items including engraving of an over-laminatestructure. The term ID document is broadly defined herein to includethese tags, labels, packaging, cards, etc. In addition, while some ofthe examples above are disclosed with specific core components, it isnoted that-laminates can be sensitized for use with other corecomponents.

To provide a comprehensive disclosure without unduly lengthening thespecification, applicant hereby incorporates by reference each of thepatents and patent applications referenced above.

The particular combinations of elements and features in theabove-detailed embodiments are exemplary only; the interchanging andsubstitution of these teachings with other teachings in this and theincorporated-by-reference patents/applications are also expresslycontemplated. As those skilled in the art will recognize, variations,modifications, and other implementations of what is described herein canoccur to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from thespirit and the scope of the invention as claimed. Accordingly, theforegoing description is by way of example only and is not intended aslimiting. The invention's scope is defined in the following claims andthe equivalents thereto.

1. A method of making an identification document comprising: providingimage information, the image information being arranged to include atleast two different images; using pressure to form a lens profile in alaminate, including combining the laminate with ink or dye representingthe image information to form the document; the document being formedtogether with the laminate and ink such that the lens profile enablesdisplay of the at least two different images when the document is viewedat different predetermined angles.
 2. The method of claim 1 wherein theimage information represents variable information associated with abearer of the document
 3. The method of claim 1 wherein the ink or dyecomprises inks or dyes of different colors to form color imageinformation.
 4. The method of claim 1 wherein at least one of the twodifferent images comprises an image of the bearer.
 5. An informationbearing document comprising: a core layer; an image layer depicting atleast two different images; a laminate layer; the laminate layer beingpressed on the core layer such that it forms a lens profile that enablesdisplay of the at least two different images when the document is viewedat different predetermined angles.
 6. The document of claim 5 whereinthe image layer represents variable information associated with a bearerof the document
 7. The document of claim 5 wherein the image layercomprises inks or dyes of different colors to form color imageinformation.
 8. The document of claim 5 wherein at least one of the twodifferent images comprises an image of the bearer.